Lewy Body Disease

(Lewy Body Dementia; Dementia with Lewy Bodies)

Definition

Dementia
is the progressive loss of memory and various other mental functions, including the ability to learn, reason, and judge. Lewy body disease is caused by the build up of Lewy bodies. These are abnormal protein deposits inside the brain cells that control certain aspects of memory and motor control. It is the second most common type of progressive dementia.

Diagnosis

The only way to diagnose Lewy body disease conclusively is through an
autopsy
. A doctor can do tests to narrow the cause of dementia. You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. The doctor will do a physical exam as well as other tests, such as:

Memory, language, and other tests

Neuropsychological tests

Patient and family interviews

CT scan
—a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside the body

MRI scan
—a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside the body

SPECT scan—a test that uses a radioactive dye to make pictures of how the brain is functioning

Blood tests

Treatment

While there is no cure, there are treatments that can control the symptoms. Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include:

Medications

These medicines may be used to help with the symptoms:

Donepezil
and
rivastigmine
—to help with cognition; may worsen motor symptoms

Memantine
—to improve behavioral symptoms

Levodopa—to help control rigidity and loss of spontaneous movement

Antidepressants

Anticonvulsants

If you have Lewy body disease, you may be particularly sensitive to medicines called neuroleptics. You may have adverse events with these medicines.